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Harley-Davidson is expanding its Riders Edge training program into California.

The New Rider Course from Harley Davidsons Academy of Motorcycling will be available at dealerships across the state. Geared toward beginners, the course teaches curriculum from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

With Harley-Davidson, becoming a rider is first and foremost about motorcycle safety, but its also about a rite of passagean experience youll never forget, says Julie Chichlowski, director of rider services. Thats exactly what we bring to our Riders Edge New Rider Course and what were excited to bring to the state of California. Riders Edge is about learning, discovering and bondingeverything a new riding experience should be.

The course consists of both classroom and road components taught by MSF-certified instructors. In-class training will focus on safety and developing confidence on a motorcycle. For the road component, riders will learn basics like braking and turning, plus more advanced maneuvers like controlling skids.

The cost and course scheduling vary by dealership, but can usually be completed over an extended weekend and outside of regular business hours. Successful completion of the program will earn a waiver exempting the rider from the riding test given by the Department of Motor Vehicles. Riders may also receive insurance premium discounts.

The Riders Edge program will initially be available at Orange County Harley-Davidson in Irvine and Antelope Valley Harley-Davidson in Lancaster, but more California dealerships are expected to begin offering the program by the end of the year.